The National Unity Platform (NUP) is facing fresh uncertainty after reports emerged that its former acting president, Dr Lina Zedriga, has reportedly left Uganda and is considering staying abroad.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Dr Zedriga, who serves as NUP deputy president for Northern Uganda, reportedly travelled out of the country through Kenya and is currently exploring options for her next move.
The reports come months after NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, left Uganda and relocated abroad following claims that he feared for his safety.
Dr Zedriga, a former magistrate, academic and human rights advocate, had taken on the role of acting party president during Bobi Wine’s absence.
Her reported departure has sparked debate among political observers about the future direction of the opposition party.
Sources claim that Zedriga has informed close friends and relatives that she does not expect to return to Uganda soon.
According to the reports, she is considering seeking political asylum in Europe or Canada, although no official confirmation has been made by Zedriga herself.
The claims come at a time when several opposition figures have raised concerns about political pressure and security threats in the country.
Sources allege that Zedriga fears possible arrest and believes she could face challenges if she returns to Uganda.
The reports further claim that she views herself and other NUP leaders as targets because of their political activities.
However, the allegations regarding threats and possible arrest have not been independently verified.
NUP has not yet released an official statement confirming whether Dr Zedriga has left the country or whether she plans to remain abroad.
Her reported exit follows internal changes within the party leadership, including the appointment of John Baptist Nambeshe as acting party president.
Zedriga’s time as acting president came as the party attempted to maintain its activities while Bobi Wine remained outside Uganda.
Political analysts say the absence of key opposition leaders could affect the party’s organisation, mobilisation and public engagement.
The development has also triggered discussions about the challenges opposition parties face when their leaders operate from outside the country.
Supporters of NUP argue that political work can continue regardless of where leaders are based.
Critics, however, question whether a party can effectively operate when several senior leaders are outside the country.
The reported departure of Zedriga adds to growing uncertainty surrounding NUP’s leadership structure.
As the situation develops, attention remains on whether Dr Zedriga will publicly address the reports and clarify her plans.
For now, NUP has remained silent on the claims, leaving questions about the future role of its senior leaders.
